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How to Fix 0x80090302 Error on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions That Work

The 0x80090302 error on Windows 11 can be frustrating, especially when it interrupts your workflow. This error is usually related to security or authentication issues within the system. Fortunately, there are several easy steps you can follow to fix it. No advanced technical knowledge is required.

In this article, we will guide you through simple and effective solutions to resolve the 0x80090302 error. Each step is explained clearly to help even beginners understand what to do. Just follow along carefully, and you should be able to fix the problem quickly.

Before diving into technical fixes, it’s important to perform a few basic checks. These quick verifications can save you time and help identify if the error is caused by something simple. Let’s start with those.

By the end, you will have multiple options to try. If any step doesn’t work, just move on to the next one until the issue is resolved.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Basic Checks

Before you begin troubleshooting, make sure of the following:

  • Windows Updates: Ensure your Windows 11 installation is fully updated. Sometimes, missing updates cause system errors.
  • Internet Connection: Verify your internet connection is stable and working properly.
  • System Restart: Restart your computer. Many errors fix themselves after a reboot.
  • Check Date and Time: Incorrect system date and time can cause authentication errors like 0x80090302.

Step 1: Run the Windows Security Troubleshooter

Windows 11 includes built-in troubleshooters that automatically detect and fix common problems. Running the security troubleshooter can resolve many authentication-related errors.

  1. Click the Start button and select Settings.
  2. Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
  3. Scroll down to find Windows Security and click Run.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

This tool checks for issues with Windows security features that might cause the 0x80090302 error.

Step 2: Check and Fix System File Corruption

Corrupted system files can lead to errors like this one. Using built-in system tools to scan and repair files often helps.

Use System File Checker (SFC)

  1. Press Windows + S, type cmd, right-click on Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
  2. In the command window, type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
  3. Wait for the scan to complete. It will automatically fix any corrupted files it finds.
  4. Restart your computer after the scan finishes.

The SFC tool helps restore system files to their original state, which can fix authentication errors.

Use Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM)

If SFC doesn’t resolve the issue, try DISM to repair the Windows image:

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator again.
  2. Type the following commands one by one and press Enter after each:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

This process checks for and repairs corruptions in the Windows image that SFC cannot fix.

Step 3: Reset Network Settings

Network issues can sometimes trigger 0x80090302 errors, especially if authentication depends on network services.

  1. Open Settings from the Start menu.
  2. Navigate to Network & Internet.
  3. Scroll down and click Advanced network settings.
  4. Under More settings, select Network reset.
  5. Click Reset now and confirm.
  6. Your PC will restart, and network settings will be returned to default.

Resetting network settings removes any misconfigurations that could cause authentication errors.

Step 4: Update or Reinstall Network Drivers

Outdated or corrupted network drivers can disrupt secure connections, leading to errors like 0x80090302.

  1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Network adapters category.
  3. Right-click your network adapter and select Update driver.
  4. Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
  5. If no updates are found, you can also select Uninstall device, then restart your PC to let Windows reinstall the driver automatically.

Keeping your drivers up to date ensures smoother network communication, which is important for authentication.

Step 5: Disable Third-Party Security Software Temporarily

Sometimes, antivirus or firewall software interferes with Windows authentication processes.

  1. Temporarily disable your antivirus or firewall software.
  2. Try to perform the task that caused the 0x80090302 error again.
  3. If the error disappears, consider adjusting your security software settings or switching to a different product.

Remember to re-enable your security software after testing to keep your system protected.

Alternative Method: Create a New User Account

If the error persists, it might be linked to user profile corruption.

  1. Go to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users.
  2. Click Add account under Other users.
  3. Follow the prompts to create a new local user account.
  4. Log out of your current account and sign in with the new one.
  5. Check if the error still occurs.

This step helps identify if the issue is specific to your user profile.

FAQs

What causes the 0x80090302 error on Windows 11?

This error usually relates to authentication or security protocol failures. It can be caused by corrupted system files, outdated drivers, network problems, or misconfigured security settings.

Is the 0x80090302 error dangerous to my PC?

No, the error itself is not harmful. However, it can prevent certain secure connections or features from working correctly, so fixing it is important.

Can a Windows update cause this error?

Yes, sometimes Windows updates modify system components that affect authentication. Keeping your system updated generally helps, but occasionally updates can introduce issues.

Should I uninstall third-party security software to fix this error?

Not necessarily. Try disabling it temporarily to see if it’s causing the problem. If it is, look for software updates or settings changes instead of uninstalling outright.

Will resetting Windows fix the 0x80090302 error?

Resetting Windows is a last resort. Try all other troubleshooting steps first since resetting will remove your apps and may lead to data loss.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and the 0x80090302 error still appears, consider the following options:

  • Contact Microsoft Support: Official support can provide advanced assistance tailored to your system.
  • Use System Restore: Roll back your system to a previous state when everything worked fine.
  • Perform a Repair Install: This reinstalls Windows without deleting your files, fixing deeper system issues.

Links to these official tools and instructions are available on Microsoft’s website for your convenience.

Conclusion

Fixing the 0x80090302 error on Windows 11 is usually straightforward if you follow the right steps. Start with basic checks like restarting your PC and verifying your system date and time. Then move on to running troubleshooters and repairing system files using SFC and DISM.

Resetting network settings and updating drivers often resolve network-related causes. Temporarily disabling third-party security software can help identify interference issues. Creating a new user account is a useful alternative to check for profile-specific problems.

If none of these work, don’t hesitate to seek professional help or use advanced Windows repair options. With patience and the right approach, you can get your system back to normal without hassle.

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